WILKES-BARRE — Abide Coffeehouse’s monthly plant swap drew about 25 attendees to its cozy venue, where participants traded plants, shared advice, and connected over a shared passion for greenery.
The plant swap, which feels like a greenhouse flea market, allows plant enthusiasts to bring their own plants to exchange. Some brought just a few plants, while others arrived with boxes filled with dozens.
Amanda Klinger, the event coordinator and a plant collector for five years, said the event’s growth has been a rewarding experience. “We moved here from Denver and didn’t know anyone. I asked the owners if we could try a plant swap, and here we are,” Klinger said. “My goal was always to build a community.”
For many, attending the plant swap is about more than just collecting plants. Some enjoy the social atmosphere, while others find the experience therapeutic. “It’s like having natural art in your house,” said Mark Saggese, a seasoned plant owner.
Discussions at the event often center on topics like potting techniques, plant care, and the rarity of certain species. In addition to swapping plants, attendees freely exchanged gardening advice, making the event as much about knowledge-sharing as it was about trading plants.
Other local venues hosting similar plant swaps include Just Breath Wellness Studio in Kingston and Nature’s Creation in Tunkhannock.
Abide Coffeehouse, which hosts 20 to 25 events per month, continues to prioritize offering diverse and accessible programming. “The events come from the community,” said co-owner Dan Shission. “There’s no formal way to schedule an event—emailing us or speaking to the staff works just as well.”
The coffeehouse’s mission is to create a “third place”—a space outside of home and work where people can relax, socialize, and build connections. This goal is reflected in the wide variety of events, from live comedy to knitting workshops to Dungeons and Dragons sessions.
Abide also caters to students by offering a 50% discount on beverages every Monday and a 15% discount on total purchases with a valid student ID every day.
Shission emphasized that Abide is an affordable space for social gatherings. “You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the events or the atmosphere here,” he said.
Since reopening under new management in November 2022, Abide Coffeehouse has worked to strengthen its role as a community hub. They send care packages to individuals weekly, with nominations accepted in-store or online. All submissions are free and confidential.
The coffeehouse also supports local causes by organizing fundraisers where 45% of proceeds go to schools or organizations. Additionally, the newly launched Abide Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, aims to further the coffeehouse’s community outreach efforts.
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